Car Pro Radio Show May 16 26 Hour 3
About this episode
Memorial Weekend gets framed as a strong time to shop for a new car, with the hosts pointing listeners to dealer incentives and CarPro.com for finding the right place to buy. The show then pivots to practical safety and ownership concerns: catalytic converter thefts, modern turbo powertrains, and even turn-signal chimes that are too quiet or too loud. Later, callers weigh luxury and hybrid choices—comparing Lexus LS options, Toyota Highlander hybrids, and used hybrid battery coverage—plus advice on donated cars at auction and avoiding the Wrangler 4xe.
Car Pro Radio Show May 16 26 Hour 3
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catalytic converter thefts
"newsletter, catalytic converter thefts are on the rise again unfortunately and if you've got a [171.8s] Toyota Prius you're gonna want to really pay attention to that"
Your car has a catalytic converter that cleans up exhaust. Thieves steal it for the valuable metals inside, and then the car can’t pass emissions and may need a costly replacement.
A catalytic converter is an emissions-control device that helps convert harmful exhaust gases into less harmful ones. When it’s stolen, the car may fail emissions checks and can become undriveable until it’s replaced.
Toyota Prius
"catalytic converter thefts are on the rise again unfortunately and if you've got a [171.8s] Toyota Prius you're gonna want to really pay attention to that"
The Toyota Prius is a hybrid that’s been targeted in catalytic converter thefts. If you own one, it’s worth taking extra anti-theft steps because replacing a stolen converter can be expensive.
The Toyota Prius is a popular hybrid, and that makes it a frequent target when catalytic converter thefts rise. The reason is that many Prius models use catalytic converters with valuable metals, and the underbody layout can make them easier to access.
turbocharger
"it's titled turbocharged and terrified don't be so I talk about turbochargers and super [195.9s] chargers and why you're gonna you're gonna buy a new car today pretty good chance that there's [201.9s] gonna be a turbocharger on it"
A turbocharger is a device that helps your engine make more power by pushing extra air into it. Because it’s under higher stress, it can require more careful maintenance than a non-turbo engine.
A turbocharger is a forced-induction device that uses exhaust gases to spin a turbine, which compresses incoming air. That lets the engine make more power from the same displacement, but it also changes how the engine needs to be maintained.
super chargers
"it's titled turbocharged and terrified don't be so I talk about turbochargers and super [195.9s] chargers and why you're gonna you're gonna buy a new car today pretty good chance that there's [201.9s] gonna be a turbocharger on it"
A supercharger is a device that squeezes more air into the engine so it can make more power. It’s usually connected to the engine, so it can boost quickly when you accelerate.
A supercharger is another forced-induction system that increases engine power by compressing intake air. Unlike a turbocharger, it’s typically driven mechanically by the engine, so it can deliver boost more immediately.
2026 Lincoln Navigator
"for reviews next week the 2026 Lincoln Navigator the 2026 Toyota CHR and the 2026 Toyota RAV4 [235.9s] limited hybrid coming up in next week's newsletter"
The Lincoln Navigator is a large SUV. The host is bringing it up in the context of newer cars that often use turbo engines, which are designed to make good power without using as much fuel.
The Lincoln Navigator is a full-size SUV, and it’s notable here because the host is discussing modern turbocharged powertrains. In today’s market, many new SUVs use turbo engines to balance power and fuel economy.
2026 Toyota CHR
"for reviews next week the 2026 Lincoln Navigator the 2026 Toyota CHR and the 2026 Toyota RAV4 [235.9s] limited hybrid coming up in next week's newsletter"
The Toyota C-HR is a small SUV/crossover. The host is talking about what kind of engines new cars are coming with, and turbo engines are becoming more common.
The Toyota C-HR is a compact crossover, and it’s mentioned alongside other 2026 Toyota models in a segment about what powertrains you’ll see on new cars. The host’s broader point is that turbocharged engines are increasingly common across mainstream models.
2026 Toyota RAV4 limited hybrid
"the 2026 Lincoln Navigator the 2026 Toyota CHR and the 2026 Toyota RAV4 [235.9s] limited hybrid coming up in next week's newsletter"
The Toyota RAV4 is a compact SUV. The hybrid version uses both a gas engine and an electric motor to help it use less fuel.
The Toyota RAV4 is a compact SUV, and the “hybrid” version combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor to improve efficiency. The host is previewing reviews, contrasting hybrid options with the turbocharged engines they expect to be common.
2025 Honda Passport
"you know I got a little situation here [279.5s] it's on a 2025 on the passport yeah and you know a lot of the little car it has the total capacity"
The Honda Passport is a mid-size SUV. The caller is saying that at highway speeds the turn-signal click is unusually quiet, which points to how well the cabin is insulated from outside noise.
The Honda Passport is a mid-size SUV, and this caller is describing a noise/comfort issue at highway speeds. That kind of cabin sound can be related to things like wind noise, door seals, or how the drivetrain is tuned for quiet operation.
all wheel drive
"a lot of the little car it has the total capacity [288.1s] I need all wheel drive yes the black edition yeah and talk to the line there"
All-wheel drive (AWD) powers more than just the two wheels in the back or front. It helps the car grip better on slippery roads, but it can be a bit more complex than simpler drivetrains.
All-wheel drive (AWD) sends power to more than one axle to improve traction. It can help in rain, snow, and uneven surfaces, but it also adds complexity compared with two-wheel-drive systems.
2000 Lexus LS430
"23 years i bought a 2000 Lexus LS430 my wife and i've driven it we've loved it for 23 years"
The Lexus LS430 is a big, luxury sedan designed to feel smooth and quiet. The caller is saying they’ve owned one for a long time and loved how it drove, so they’re comparing that experience to newer LS models.
The Lexus LS430 is a flagship luxury sedan known for its smooth, quiet ride and long-distance comfort. In this segment, it’s the long-term car the caller and their wife have owned for 23 years, setting the baseline for what they expect from the LS line.
Lexus LS
"we want to buy a new one and i'm looking at the LS of the 2026 Lexus LS but i see two problems with it i see it's the final year for the model apparently"
The Lexus LS is Lexus’s top luxury sedan. In this discussion, they’re talking about the 2026 LS possibly being the last year, and whether it still feels as quiet and comfortable as older LS models.
The Lexus LS is the brand’s flagship luxury sedan, and the segment focuses on how the 2026 model year may be the final year for the LS. The hosts also discuss how consumer reviews claim it’s lost some of the “quiet luxury” character, while the speaker argues the newer LS is still very refined.
final year for the model
"but i see two problems with it i see it's the final year for the model apparently and secondly i see a disappointing review on consumer reports"
“Final year for the model” means the car is likely being discontinued. That can change what deals are available and what the future support looks like.
“Final year for the model” means the manufacturer is ending that model line, usually because it’s being discontinued or replaced. For shoppers, it can affect pricing, availability, and how long parts/support remain easy to find.
test drive
"i'm being psyched out to go give it a test drive or should i look for something no you should you should go do a test drive"
A test drive is a hands-on evaluation where you drive the car yourself to judge things like ride quality, noise level, and how the controls feel. The host is encouraging the caller to verify whether the car matches their expectations rather than relying solely on reviews.
Lexus LS 500
"but i will tell you i've reviewed the LS 500 it's at carpro.com you can read it i thought it was spectacular and yeah there's more bells and whistles on that car than yours 23 year old one"
The Lexus LS 500 is a newer version of the LS luxury sedan with more features. The host is saying they drove/reviewed it and thought it was very quiet and impressive.
The Lexus LS 500 is a newer, higher-spec LS variant that’s positioned as a more feature-rich flagship. The host says they found it “spectacular” and “super quiet,” arguing it doesn’t match the negative tone of certain consumer reviews.
Genesis G90
"oftentimes when people want to look at a LS 500 i tell them to look at a genesis g90 and it's it's about the same size car it's got even more features"
The Genesis G90 is another big luxury sedan. The host suggests it as an alternative to the Lexus LS because it’s similar in size and comes with a long warranty.
The Genesis G90 is a full-size luxury sedan that the host recommends as a comparison to the Lexus LS. The key point here is that it’s described as having a similar size and offering a long warranty, making it a practical alternative shoppers should consider.
10 year 100 000 mile warranty
"and it's got a 10 year 100 000 mile warranty so i'd look at both but i'm going to tell you"
A warranty is protection for repairs. “10 years / 100,000 miles” means the company will cover certain problems for a long time, which can make the car less stressful to own.
A warranty is the manufacturer’s promise to cover certain repairs for a set time and mileage. A “10 year / 100,000 mile” warranty is a long coverage window that can reduce ownership risk and make a luxury alternative more attractive.
car shield
"but for a long time boy they were not paying claims at all and the f tc federal trade commission filed a 10 million dollar fine against car shield and that's the biggest one"
Car Shield is a company that sells plans to help pay for certain car repairs. The hosts are talking about whether they were paying repair claims, and that matters if you’re considering buying one of these plans.
Car Shield is a company that sells vehicle service contracts, often marketed as coverage for repairs after the factory warranty. The episode discusses regulatory action related to how claims were handled, which is relevant to whether the coverage is trustworthy.
f tc federal trade commission
"the f tc federal trade commission filed a 10 million dollar fine against car shield and that's the biggest one"
The FTC is a U.S. agency that polices consumer protection. In this segment, it’s brought up because it fined a company over how they handled customers’ claims.
The FTC (Federal Trade Commission) is a U.S. government agency that can investigate and fine companies for deceptive or unfair business practices. Here, it’s mentioned in connection with penalties tied to how claims were handled by Car Shield.
Toyota grand highlander
"then i would look at the toyota highlander or the toyota grand highlander depending on your budget if you're looking for an upscale more luxury type almost alexis hybrid three row suv then the grand highlander is the way to go"
The Toyota Grand Highlander is the more upscale version of the Highlander. The host says it’s for people who want a nicer interior while still staying with a hybrid.
The Toyota Grand Highlander is positioned as an upscale, more luxury-leaning three-row hybrid compared with the standard Highlander. The host’s key differentiator is that it’s aimed at buyers who want nicer materials and a more premium feel inside.
Genesis GV80
"the gv80 we're all tall people okay then you know we're all over six feet no that jenesis ain't gonna do it for you as much as i like it the gv80 is great but it's just it's tight in the third row seat and it's tight in headroom"
The Genesis GV80 is a luxury SUV with three rows, but the host says it doesn’t work as well for tall people. They mention that the third row feels cramped because the roof slopes down.
The Genesis GV80 is a three-row SUV the host says can feel tight for taller passengers, especially in the third row. The discussion points to headroom loss from the sloping roofline, which reduces usable space as you move farther back.
hybrid system
"to go to alexis the tx one of my favorites and and it's got the same hybrid system as the toyota"
A hybrid system uses both a gas engine and an electric motor. The goal is to get better efficiency by using electricity when it helps most.
A hybrid system combines an internal-combustion engine with an electric motor and battery to move the car and recapture energy. The host compares one car’s hybrid system to Toyota’s, implying they’re similar in how they deliver efficiency and drivability.
auction
"they sell them all at the auction and they do that for one simple reason to raise the most money that they can"
An auction is where cars are sold to the person who bids the most. In this story, nonprofits use auctions because they can usually get more money than selling like a regular car lot.
An auction is a sales process where vehicles are sold to the highest bidder, often with multiple buyers competing. The caller explains that donated cars go to auction because nonprofits can typically raise more money there than selling through a dealership-style lot.
Toyota Sienna Hybrid
"yeah because i'm looking i'm looking for a toyota sienna hybrid uh because i'm facing an imminent foreclosure"
The Toyota Sienna Hybrid is a hybrid minivan—so it’s built to be efficient while still carrying people and cargo. The caller is looking at it specifically, likely because they want the hybrid benefits.
The Toyota Sienna Hybrid is a hybrid minivan built around Toyota’s hybrid system, designed to deliver strong fuel economy while still offering family-friendly space. The caller brings it up as a specific vehicle they’re trying to buy, tying the hybrid choice to their financial situation.
go fund me
"because i'm facing an imminent foreclosure and i have no clue how to set up a go and fund me"
GoFundMe is a website where people ask for donations to help pay for something. The host is suggesting sharing the request online so more people see it.
GoFundMe is a crowdfunding platform where people collect donations for personal needs. The host advises the caller to set up a campaign and share it on social media to increase visibility and donations.
Hyundai Tucson Hybrid 2022
"i have a co-worker that's trying to sell me his um Hyundai Tucson hybrid 2022 yeah"
The Hyundai Tucson Hybrid is a compact SUV that runs on gas and electric together. The caller is considering a 2022 model and wants to know what people like and dislike about it.
The Hyundai Tucson Hybrid is a compact SUV that uses a hybrid powertrain to improve efficiency compared with a traditional gas-only setup. Here it’s the specific used-car candidate the caller is considering buying from a coworker, and they’re looking for a balanced view of what’s good and bad.
Tucson Hybrid
"...co-worker that's trying to sell me his um Hyundai Tucson hybrid 2022 yeah um i you know i went and i got some inf..."
plug-in hybrid
"is that one question is it the plug-in hybrid or regular hybrid the regular hybrid okay"
A plug-in hybrid can be charged like an electric car. It also has a gas engine, so it doesn’t rely only on the battery.
A plug-in hybrid is a hybrid car with a battery large enough to be charged from an external outlet. It can run on electricity for short trips, then switches to a gasoline engine (and/or the hybrid system) when the battery is depleted.
regular hybrid
"is that one question is it the plug-in hybrid or regular hybrid the regular hybrid okay"
A regular hybrid charges its battery while you drive, not by plugging it in. It uses gas and electric together, and the battery gets topped up during braking and driving.
A regular (non-plug-in) hybrid typically can’t be charged from a wall outlet; its battery is replenished by the engine and regenerative braking. Because it relies on the gasoline engine more than a plug-in hybrid, it’s usually better for drivers who don’t have easy charging access.
Kia
"Hyundai and Kia both been they've made good hybrids there's never been any problems with them"
Kia is mentioned because it also makes hybrid cars. The host is basically saying Kia and Hyundai hybrids have been good, but they’re newer than Toyota’s, so there’s less long-term data.
Kia is mentioned alongside Hyundai as a brand that has produced hybrid systems with a good reputation. The host’s broader point is that newer hybrid systems may have less documented history than Toyota’s long-running approach.
auto check
"get an auto check dot com and see see what it shows you don't have to tell them you did it but put your mind to these uh and if if the auto check is clean"
AutoCheck is a service that looks up a used car’s history. It can help you spot problems like accidents or title issues before you buy.
AutoCheck is a vehicle history report service that compiles data like title/ownership records and reported incidents. The host recommends using AutoCheck to verify a used car’s background before purchase, especially when the price seems unusually low.
Carfax
"that's better than carfax oh yeah i mean i i i have always recommended auto check over carfax carfax carfax just isn't nearly as accurate"
Carfax is a website/service that checks a used car’s history. The host is saying they prefer AutoCheck because they believe Carfax doesn’t catch as much or isn’t as accurate.
Carfax is another vehicle history report provider, and the host argues it’s less accurate than AutoCheck. In this context, the key point is that different report services can show different results, so it’s worth checking the one the host trusts.
hybrid batteries
"how about the battery because i was thinking about the battery you know eventually i'm gonna have to repay that the hyper batteries"
Hybrid batteries are the rechargeable batteries that help the car run on electricity part of the time. If they wear out, repairs can be costly, so warranty coverage is important.
Hybrid batteries are the rechargeable battery packs that store electrical energy for the electric motor in a hybrid vehicle. Their cost and warranty coverage matter because they’re a major component that can be expensive to replace if it fails outside warranty.
warranted
"you know they're warranted for i think 12 months 12 years with the hunday warranty that comes with the car"
A warranty is the coverage that pays for certain repairs if something breaks. The host is saying the hybrid battery is covered for a long time, which reduces the risk of expensive battery replacement.
A warranty is the manufacturer’s promise to cover certain repairs or failures for a set time/mileage. Here, the host is discussing the hybrid battery warranty duration (12 months / 12 years as stated), which is a key buying consideration for hybrid battery risk.
remanufactured hybrid battery
"and now you can get a remanufactured hybrid battery that's a fraction of the cost of a new one so for around a thousand to 1500 dollars if the battery goes out you can get a remanufactured one with a warranty"
A remanufactured hybrid battery is a rebuilt battery instead of a brand-new one. It’s usually cheaper, and it often comes with a warranty so you’re not taking all the risk.
A remanufactured hybrid battery is a used battery pack that’s been rebuilt to meet specifications, rather than replaced with a brand-new unit. The key value proposition is cost savings, and many remanufactured packs include a warranty.
Jeep Wrangler 4xe
"tell her not to get the uh four by e which is a plug-in hybrid i would not recommend that one"
The Jeep Wrangler 4xe is the Wrangler that can be charged like a plug-in hybrid. The host is saying it may not be the best choice for your niece—likely because of how it fits her needs and expectations.
The Jeep Wrangler 4xe is the plug-in hybrid version of the Wrangler, combining a gasoline engine with an electric motor and a battery you can charge externally. The host specifically advises against it for this buyer, implying the plug-in hybrid setup isn’t the best fit for her situation.
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